Waltham restaurants and diners have a reputation for attracting Lasell students, particularly those located on Moody Street. Those searching past the popular eateries on the main stretch will be able to find a little piece of Mexico when they stumble upon Taqueria Mexico.

Taqueria Mexico is located at 24 Charles Street, Waltham and serves quick and authentic Mexican food. (Photo by Sean McGlone)

The small restaurant is easy to miss for those who pass by the 24 Charles Street location in Waltham, as it is a hidden gem off of the bustling Moody Street. The modest restaurant is an ace for local college students looking for an inexpensive place to dine off campus and away from the hectic main street.

Authentic music and traditional decorations create an escape from frigid winter days. The relaxed, no-frills interior entices dining at a leisurely pace. The friendly staff won’t rush patrons out of the cozy booths, making it the perfect place to catch up with friends. Rather than focusing on the aesthetics of the dining room, attention is placed on the cuisine.

Like any good Mexican eatery, you are presented with a generous basket of warm tortilla chips and salsa upon arrival that will hold your appetite over as you flip through the menu. Menu pages are filled with seemingly endless options, including a variety of vegetarian friendly dishes. Traditional favorites such as sopa, ceviche, enchiladas, and tacos are featured.

The majority of entrées include Spanish rice, refried beans, and a small salad which immediately turn each dish into a full meal. Large platters of food hide the table beneath it. The generous portions are satisfying, but maybe not for those with a sweet tooth as they leave you too full for dessert. Taqueria Mexico serves a number of traditional Mexican desserts including tres leche, a sponge cake soaked in three different types of milk, drizzled with chocolate and whipped cream.

Those in search of a good ol’ margarita will be disappointed, as the restaurant’s only alcoholic options are beer and wine. However, it serves as the perfect excuse to try a Jarritos, a popular Mexican soda made with real cane sugar.

The brightly painted walls and the spacious and open dining area give the illusion to diners that the quaint restaurant is a lot larger than it actually is. Tables can be configured to accommodate larger parties. Although seating is limited, waiting for a table is rare. In proportion to the small restaurant, street parking is limited, but can be found in the maze of adjoining side streets.

Taqueria Mexico can also be found at 40 Concord Street in Framingham. Both locations are open seven days a week, serving lunch and dinner from 10 a.m. until 10 p.m. and until 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.